“I seek to be a peace-maker and bridge-builder between cultures through language teaching. I believe language is power and that language learning can be transformative for both foreign and second language learners. Striving for constant learning and engagement (linguistic and otherwise) with all peoples around us is one way of realizing the pluralized, unified kingdom of God here on this earth.”

Eric has taught English as a Foreign Language in China and South Korea for nearly 10 years. He holds an MA in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Azuza Pacific University in Azuza, California and enjoys working at the intersection where language teaching and peacemaking meet. His hobbies include mountain biking, reading and finding ways to stay connected with Chinese people and issues.

Education

February 2011 – December 2011
Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
Student of Chinese as a Second Language

February 2009 – January 2010
Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
Student of Chinese as a Second Language

January 2006 – January 2009
Azuza Pacific University, Los Angeles, California
M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Church, Community and Professional Service

Summer 2012-2014
Chinese Summer Camp in the US — served as a leader and teacher during this 1 month trip for Chinese middle and high school students to gain cross-cultural exposure and language training in the US in conjunction with Mennonite Partners in China.

February, 2006 – January 2012
Mennonite Partners in China (MPC) and Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) – served as a member these non-profit organizations which seek to enhance cultural understanding between China and North America through educational exchanges.

Summer 2009, 2010, 2011
Northeast Asian Peace Camp – served as a councilor at this camp in Nanchong, Sichuan province, China and Inje, South Korea in order to help high school students from South Korea, China and Japan combat negative stereotypes and build bridges of understanding with students from the other countries.

New Courses Taught

Undergraduate:
American Literature
Advanced Grammar
Advanced Writing
Basic Writing
British and American Culture
Business English Reading
Debate
Elementary Mandarin Chinese
Interview English
Oral English for Business
Oral English